Lumbar Fusion Protocol

Each physician has his/her own specific guidelines for the rehabilitation process. Deviations from

the protocol are dependent on prior level of function, general health of the patient, equipment available, goals of the patient, and specific orders written on the prescription. It is the treating therapist’s responsibility along with the referring physician’s guidance to determine the actual progression of the patient within the protocol guidelines.

Two important goals throughout the lumbar fusion physical therapy protocol are maintenance of neutral spine and stabilization. Neutral spine is a position between spinal flexion and extension that is most comfortable for the patient and produces the least amount of pressure on the disc. Stabilization is a balance between strength, flexibility, muscular endurance, coordination, and aerobic capacity which makes it possible to maintain neutral spine during static and dynamic loading. It is important to note that variations exist in the type of lumbar fusion surgical approach used and limitations are dependent on this particular surgical approach.

Once the patient can demonstrate proper stabilization without cueing, a progression of exercises to further develop and improve stabilization can begin. It is important that proper stabilization be achieved with each attempted exercise prior to progressing to moderate/advanced stabilization exercises.

The following clinical observations require a consultation with the referring/consulting physician:

Failure of incision to close or significant redness, swelling or pain in the area of incision.

Unexpectedly high self-reports of pain in comparison to presurgical state.

Loss of Bowel or Bladder function.

Failure to meet progress milestones according to protocol “guidelines” as may be modified by clinical judgment with consideration given to previous presurgical state and typical progression of patients during rehabilitation.

About this website

Copyright 2016, Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center. All rights reserved. All information is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting a new fitness regimen.

Privacy Protection Policy

The purpose of the policy is to protect the confidentiality of Personal Information of employees, patients and others doing business with Saint Francis in accordance with state and federal law. Personal Information means information capable of being associated with ...